5 things you didn't know about the new 'Joker', Joaquin Phoenix

There’s no doubt that ‘Joker’ is among the most anticipated films of the year, if not the most. While the film’s release may be a few weeks away, DC Films’ newest addition has already generated plenty of rave reviews from critics, and won big at the Venice Film Festival.

Joaquin Phoenix, who is reprising the role of one of Hollywood's most celebrated villains, is among the most talented actors of his generation. All this hype around the movie however, got me wondering about the life of the man playing this character. Phoenix is not one to love the limelight, or one that is seen attending award shows. In fact, the actor has maintained a discreet life ever since he became a part of the glamorous world of movies.

Only after doing some research did I learn about the fascinating, and somewhat heartbreaking life of Phoenix. He still suffers from anxiety while acting and believes that award shows are a big façade but there’s much more to him than what meets the eyes.

Here’s some things you might have not known about the 'Joker’ actor:

Phoenix had never sang before playing Johnny Cash in ‘Walk the Line’

Before being chosen by the late musician Johnny Cash himself, Phoenix had, in fact, never sang a single note; hard to believe because the resemblance is uncanny. When asked how the actor mimicked Cash’s voice so easily, the said, "I was surprised just to get through a song! I never sang before, but if I had tried to sing along to something it was to John Lennon and David Bowie, who both sing quite high.So to suddenly go to John was so odd to me. It was very strange to have to use a part of my voice that I didn't know existed."

He changed his name to ‘Leaf’ for a decade

Strange, but very true. The actor was angry at how people could not properly pronounce his original name, and his other siblings all had nature-related names.

He is a spokesperson for PETA

Not only has the actor been vegan since the age of 3, but he also refused to wear leather shoes for a photo shoot once; he refuses to wear anything made by animals and stands by the fact that cruelty to animals needs to end.

Phoenix derailed his career for 18 months and acted crazy 24/7

Phoenix’s brother-in-law, Casey Affleck directed ‘I’m Still Here’, a mockumentary that showcases the actor quitting his job to become a full-time rapper. During the time of filming, Phoenix’s madness caught attention on a controversial appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman, and he even said horrible things about people in print interviews, among many other things.

He was broken up by his brother’s death

Not only was Phoenix present on the night that his brother died from a drug overdose at an L.A club, but he was the one to place the chilling 911 call.